The All Blacks have announced their squad for the final Test against France, with three players who share ties to Fiji making the matchday lineup. Coach Scott Robertson has included Timoci Tavatavanawai, Sevuloni Reece, and George Bower, with Reece starting in the first fifteen while Tavatavanawai and Bower are positioned on the bench.
Tavatavanawai’s inclusion marks his second outing as an All Black, while Bower returns to the squad after nearly a three-year absence, having last been on the field for New Zealand in November 2022 against England. Coach Robertson has made significant changes for this match, with a total of ten players switched in the starting lineup.
Among the changes, the backline sees six new faces, with wing Rieko Ioane being the only player retained in his position. The All Blacks are gearing up to face France at 7:05 PM on Saturday in Hamilton, looking to solidify their performance.
The starting lineup for New Zealand consists of Ruben Love; Sevu Reece, Anton Lienert-Brown, Quinn Tupaea, Rieko Ioane; Damian McKenzie, Cortez Ratima; Luke Jacobson, Ardie Savea (captain), Samipeni Finau; Fabian Holland, Patrick Tuipulotu; Tyrel Lomax, Samisoni Taukei’aho, Ethan de Groot, with a strong group on the bench including Brodie McAlister, George Bower, and Timoci Tavatavanawai.
This lineup not only showcases the depth and talent of the All Blacks but also highlights the hopeful return of players like Tavatavanawai and Bower, fostering excitement amongst fans for their performance in this critical match against France. The adjustments made by the coaching staff indicate a strategic plan to reclaim dominance, reflecting optimism for a positive outcome in the clash.
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